Chore’s – What is Appropriate?

Here are some sample of chores that would be appropriate for many children in these age groups.

Chores for children ages 2 to 3

• Put toys away.
• Fill pet’s food dish.
• Put clothes in hamper.
• Wipe up spills.
• Dust.
• Pile books and magazines.

Chores for children ages 4 to 5

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Make own bed.
• Empty wastebaskets.
• Bring in mail or newspaper.
• Clear table.
• Pull weeds.
• Use hand-held vacuum to pick up crumbs.
• Water flowers.
• Unload utensils from dishwasher.
• Wash plastic dishes at sink.
• Fix bowl of cereal.

Chores for children ages 6 to 7

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Sort laundry.
• Sweep floors.
• Set and clear table.
• Help make and pack lunch.
• Weed and rake leaves.
• Keep bedroom tidy.
• Pour own drinks.
• Answer telephone.

Chores for children ages 8 to 9

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Load dishwasher.
• Put away groceries.
• Vacuum.
• Help make dinner.
• Make own snacks.
• Wash table after meals.
• Put away own laundry.
• Sew buttons.
• Make own breakfast.
• Peel vegetables.
• Cook simple foods, such as toast.
• Mop floor.
• Take pet for a walk.

Chores for children ages 10 and older.

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Unload dishwasher.
• Fold laundry.
• Clean bathroom.
• Wash windows.
• Wash car.
• Cook simple meal with supervision.
• Iron clothes.
• Do laundry.
• Baby-sit younger siblings (with adult in the home).
• Mow lawn.
• Clean kitchen.
• Clean oven.
• Change bed.
• Make cookies or cake from a box mix.